The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Georgia safety Tykee Smith with the 89th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, banking on his impressive college credentials to bolster their struggling defense. Smith's collegiate career saw him contribute significantly to two national championships, wrapping up his final season with 70 tackles, four interceptions, and two sacks.

In his rookie year with the Buccaneers, Smith quickly established himself as a key player in the secondary, starting six out of 13 games. His performance included two interceptions, seven defended passes, and three forced fumbles, showcasing his ability to impact games. His stats were even more pronounced during Tampa Bay's Wild Card playoff game, where he recorded seven tackles, solidifying his role as a reliable defensive back for the team.